Best 5 Solar Companies in Baton Rouge, LA

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Baton Rouge

The more comprehensive your company investigation is, the better your solar panels will ultimately function. Consider all of these factors in your company search.

Licensing and Training

In Louisiana, contractors can earn a solar energy endorsement, or "classification," on their commercial contracting license. To do this, they need to obtain electrical, mechanical, or building endorsements first, then pass a test or submit a copy of their certification with NABCEP. Solar companies can also pursue accreditations from trade groups and standards organizations. The most prestigious ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Baton Rouge

Your solar modules' style will impact how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. Polycrystalline panels offer you a budget panel with a traditional design, but at the cost of less power generation. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.

If you'd like to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in dark weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your system more effective and user-friendly. Not every solar contractor includes these add-ons, so look for a provider that installs them if it's a priority for you.

Generally speaking, it costs about $19,000 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Baton Rouge. This table displays more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in Baton Rouge

Choosing the ideal financing option will impact your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include power purchase agreements, loans, cash payments, and leases. Most solar experts recommend a cash payment or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they save you from paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to a car or home loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a variable rate based on only the energy you use. We generally don't recommend these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in certain circumstances. Ask each installer you're considering about the financing options it offers. A consultant can help you determine the most suitable option for your financial situation.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Baton Rouge.

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.